Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards Predictions, Odds & Picks

• Anthony Davis has been subtle since returning from injury, playing just 25 minutes per game.
• The Wizards’ eight-game win streak was ended in their overtime loss to the Spurs on Monday.
• The Wizards won their previous meeting with the Lakers this season, 127 to 124 in overtime.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards Odds

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Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards Predictions and Picks

The Wizards are in tremendous form, winning eight of their last ten. The Lakers on the other hand have been struggling, despite the return of Anthony Davis.

Pick:

Washington Wizards def. Los Angeles Lakers (+120)

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How to Watch Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards

Head-to-Head: Los Angeles Lakers vs Washington Wizards

LAL: Take Care of the Ball

The Lakers are coming off of a simple victory over the Orlando Magic. An important factor in their success and 123.8 offensive rating on the night was their ability to make efficient plays.

The Lakers assisted on 48% of their field-goals, mostly led by the playmaking of point guard Dennis Schroder. To make matters more encouraging, the Lakers committed just 11 turnovers – five of which were committed by Anthony Davis alone.

Making intelligent passes will be important if the Lakers want to overcome the athleticism of the Wizards’ defence. Establishing efficiency in their offence early will help them in their pursuit of a victory.

Lakers Key Player: (C) Andre Drummond

Andre Drummond making his presence known. ?

pic.twitter.com/hg6qI8qdVs

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 13, 2021

The Los Angeles Lakers are grateful to have a productive center manning the paint. While Marc Gasol filled in admirably to start the season, Andre Drummond has made it clear that he is the best option for the Lakers at the five.

In his last game Drummond had his usual impact. He posted 13 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks in 25 minutes of play.

Drummond must control the paint if the Lakers want to win this match. The Wizards love to shoot the three ball, so Drummond must limit opportunities at the rim and second chances.

WAS: Just A Bit Of Defence

The Washington Wizards are coming off of one of their most exciting games of the season. While their offence led by Westbrook and Beal was impressive, their defence left head coach Scott Brooks wanting.

The Wizards had a chance to close the game and extend their win streak to nine in their last game, but instead they remained passive on defence. They allowed the Spurs to shoot 64.5% in the fourth quarter, lucking out when Demar Derozan’s game-winning attempt at the end of regulation rimmed out.

Westbrook and Beal combined for 67 points, but the Wizards could win a lot more games should their defence make an effort. The Lakers aren’t the sharpest shooting team in the league, but they’re more than capable of converting when given the opportunities Washington present.

Wizards Key Player: (G) Bradley Beal

The Best of the Washington Wizards’ 8-GAME WIN STREAK (11 when Bradley Beal plays)!

It’s the longest streak for the franchise since Michael Jordan’s Wizards won 9 straight in 2001.pic.twitter.com/8lsa6KKqrt

— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) April 26, 2021

Bradley Beal is almost single-handedly carrying the Washington Wizards back into the playoff race. While he has the support of Russell Westbrook, Beal is still doing his utmost to be productive.

In his last game against the Spurs, Beal posted an incredible line. He scored 45 points on 54.1% shooting, but failed to convert on a single three-point attempt.

Beal can certainly score the ball, but to take down the Lakers he needs to diversify his contributions. Create for teammates and strike from range and Beal can help avoid another close game collapse.